Punjab Imposes Section 144 Across Province

News Desk
LAHORE: The Punjab government has officially imposed Section 144 across the entire province, enforcing a strict ban on public gatherings, rallies, and demonstrations in a bid to maintain public order and security. The Home Department issued the notification following intelligence reports regarding potential security threats and the risk of disruption to public peace during upcoming events.
According to the official notification, the restrictions will remain in place for a specified period, empowering local law enforcement agencies to take stern legal action against violators.
The measure prohibits all kinds of assemblies of five or more people in public spaces, as well as the brandishing of weapons and the use of loudspeakers, aiming to preemptively counter any threats to the writ of the state.
The sweeping decision carries profound implications for political activities, public movement, and daily commerce across major urban and rural centers in Pakistan’s most populous province.
While civil administration maintains that the step is purely precautionary to safeguard citizens, critics and political observers often view such blanket restrictions as curtailing fundamental democratic rights and freedom of expression.
District administrations across all divisions of Punjab have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order, with police personnel placed on high alert at sensitive installations and entry points.
Authorities are expected to review the security situation periodically before deciding whether to extend or relax the enforcement once the high-risk window passes.